Pyroderces argyrogrammos (Zeller 1847)
scarce thistle cosmet
on thistles
parasite
The larvae develop in the flower heads, feeding on the developing fruits. Also pupationa and hibernation takes place in the heads, in a light cocoon. The heads remain closed, which especially in winter makes them conspicuous.
host plants
Asteraceae, oligophagous
Carduus; Carlina corymbosa, gummifera; Carthamus lanatus, tinctorius; Centaurea aspera, benedicta, calcitrapa, sphaerocephala, stoebe; Cynara cardunculus, humilis; Klasea baetica, integrifolia; Onopordum acanthium; Picnomon acarna; Scolymus hispanicus.
distribution within Europe
references
Biesenbaum (2000d), Corley (2005a), Harizanova, Stoeva, Cristofaro ao (2010a), Huertas Dionisio (2007a), Kasy (1987a), Koster & Sinev (2003a), Sterling, Koster & Costen (2004a).